Liberal Leader Susan Holt has made political history in New Brunswick, becoming the province’s first woman premier while delivering a devastating blow to Blaine Higgs and the Progressive Conservatives.
Holt’s Liberals have won a majority government after a 33-day campaign that was considered a tight race between her and Higgs. With all votes counted, the Liberals swept 31 ridings, the PCs were elected in 16 ridings and the Greens in two.
Higgs, 70, who was seeking a third term as premier, was ousted from the top job and was defeated in his own riding of Quispamsis by Liberal candidate Aaron Kennedy.
Premier-designate Holt, 47, is a relative newcomer to the province’s political scene. She won a byelection last year, eight months after she became the first woman to win the leadership of the party.
She was raised in Fredericton and holds a bachelor of arts in economics and a bachelor of science in chemistry from Queen’s University. Prior to entering politics, she held several roles in the business sector and was CEO of the Fredericton Chamber of Commerce and CEO of the New Brunswick Business Council.
During a passionate and enthusiastic victory speech, Holt promised a “brighter future” for the province and thanked New Brunswickers for “putting your trust in me and my team.”
“Tonight’s results have made it clear: New Brunswickers are ready for a change,” she said from downtown Fredericton.
“We are going to do the very best we can. We’re going to work our butts off on Day 1. A new day and a brighter future is coming to New Brunswick tomorrow.”
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She thanked her supporters and family — including her husband and three daughters — while also highlighting her historic win by honouring “all the women before me who made tonight possible.”
Holt also promised equality and balance in her approach to leading the province — which seemed to contrast her opponent’s experiences. The road to this election was marred by controversy within Higgs’ PC party after he announced changes to the gender identity policy in schools known as Policy 713. It prompted a caucus revolt, as well as a bid to trigger a leadership review.
“I love you. I love you New Brunswick and with me, you’re going to get a leadership that listens and a leadership that cares,” said Holt.
“A leadership that will respect you no matter what language you speak, no matter who you love or how you identify, no matter where you live, no matter the colour of your skin,” she said.
‘Not the night we hoped for’
In a speech to supporters, Higgs confirmed he would begin a leadership transition process.
“It’s certainly not the night we hoped for but nevertheless, it is what it is,” he began.
He said he had called Holt to congratulate her and that he wished her well.
“Susan you’ve earned the trust of the people and I wished her … every success as she takes on the challenges that lie ahead. I’m proud of the campaign we ran, one that was focused on making New Brunswick a better place for all of us,” he said.
Coon, 67, who was re-elected in his riding of Fredericton Lincoln, was the first party leader to speak publicly and addressed a jubilant crowd at his election headquarters at a Fredericton pub.
“What a surprise tonight!” the Green Party leader began.
He also said he had called Holt to congratulate her, and looked forward to the work ahead.
“We’re continuing to build. One thing is sure: Blaine Higgs is no longer the premier of this province,” he said as the crowd erupted with cheers.
At dissolution more than a month ago, the Conservatives held 25 seats in the 49-seat legislature. The Liberals held 16 seats, the Greens had three, there was one Independent and there were four vacancies.
— with files from Global News’ Kalina Laframboise and The Canadian Press
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